Ancient Sources (Material Evidence): Greek Temples (CLA2351)

15 credits

Temples are among the most outstanding creations of ancient Greek society, praised for their artistic and technological achievements both in the ancient world and in modern days. In Greek society, they fulfilled a multitude of purposes as gifts to, and houses of the gods, but also as a means of focusing and expressing individual and communal pride and identity. In this module, you will investigate the full range of these aspects, and suggest answers to the question: Why did the Greeks need temples? In doing so, you will develop your knowledge and skills in using and analysing historical sources. You will give particular focus to architecture, architectural sculpture and cult images, whilst considering the organisation of sacred space, technicalities of decoration, and the representation of gods in image form.